BYD has introduced the Racco, a new electric kei vehicle that the company says is the world’s first software-defined vehicle-based light EV. The model officially went on sale this week, giving BYD a fresh entry in the small, low-cost electric car segment.

A major talking point is the price. BYD is starting the Racco at around $13,000, positioning it as an affordable EV aimed at buyers looking for a compact electric option without a high upfront cost.

The launch is also notable because BYD described the Racco as its first electric kei car. That makes the release important not only as a new model debut, but also as a sign that the company is expanding its EV lineup into smaller and more budget-focused categories.

BYD held a launch event for the Racco on Tuesday, highlighting the model’s combination of compact size, electric power, and software-defined vehicle positioning. With a low entry price and a new format for the brand, the Racco could draw attention from shoppers interested in inexpensive next-generation EVs.